PLANS to improve Hurn roundabout in Christchurch have been put on display for residents.

Dorset County Council is currently consulting on two options to help relieve congestion on the busy route, with residents able to have their say on the two options on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Council officers running the consultation event at Hurn Bridge Sports Club said they were pleased with the turnout and said residents’ response had been mainly positive.

Jody Foy, management engineer at Dorset County Council said: “We have had a really good turnout overall.

“Many of the visitors have been residents of the Matchams Lane area. It’s actually been really positive.

“Of course most people have been in favour of the roundabout – which is our preferred option as well.

“We even had the comment of “excellent” from one person, which is brilliant.

“I think people are happy we are here looking at a solution.

“It’s a great chance for us to get more information about the area as well.

“It’s important to know what the Post Office thinks, how we can help the sports club and why a crossing is needed.

“People have come in with questions which has been good.”

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The work is due to take place in 2014 and will last between six-nine months, although most of the work will be off the carriageway, keeping disruption to a minimum, officers insist.

“Ultimately we hope this scheme could improve the quality of life for residents. We are trying to keep the area rural. It’s difficult because by the volume of traffic this isn’t a rural area, but there is a village here in a rural environment”, Jody added.

The officers are working with members of Hurn Parish Council to ensure the plans are suitable for the village, although the parish council would prefer to see improvements made

Jessica Ritson, from Hurn Post Office said: “I think it will be pointless.
“People coming in here have told us they don’t want anything done.
The problem isn’t here, it’s at Blackwater.”

Roy Ritson, also from Hurn Post Office said: “It does seem a waste of money.
“I don’t think people want it. It will definitely have an effect on our business and will drive people away.”

Hurn resident Dawn Rumens said: “I think its rubbish. The money would be better spent on the flooding problems in Matchams Lane. Blackwater is the real problem, not Hurn.”

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